Few sporting events in the world can claim the singular identity and cultural resonance of White Turf. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the frozen Lake St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps, White Turf is not merely a horse racing event—it is a living institution, a symbol of heritage, and a global gathering point for sport, society, and tradition.
First held in 1907, White Turf has evolved into one of the most distinctive equestrian events worldwide. It remains, to this day, the only horse racing event conducted on a frozen lake, attracting participants and spectators from across the globe.
Each February, over three consecutive Sundays, the Engadin Valley transforms into a stage where elite thoroughbreds race across snow-covered terrain, accompanied by disciplines such as trotting and the uniquely Alpine sport of skikjöring—where skiers are pulled by galloping horses.
The event draws approximately 30,000 visitors annually, blending sport with high society, culture, and lifestyle.
Yet beyond its glamour, White Turf represents something deeper:
a fusion of heritage, community, and continuity.
The 2026 Edition: A Defining Moment
The 2026 edition of White Turf once again demonstrated why the event continues to command international attention.
Held across three Sundays—February 8th, 15th, and 22nd—the program featured a dynamic mix of races, culminating in the event’s most prestigious highlight:
The Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation 85th Grand Prix of St. Moritz
This flagship race, held on the final Sunday, stood as the centerpiece of the entire event. Covering 2,000 meters and offering a prize purse of CHF 100,000, it represents the pinnacle of competition at White Turf.
More importantly, it embodies the intersection of sport and purpose through its title sponsor:
the Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation.
A Partnership That Elevates the Event
The continued sponsorship of the Grand Prix by the Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation is not incidental—it is strategic, long-term, and values-driven.
The Foundation has committed to a multi-year partnership, reaffirming its role as a key supporter of White Turf and helping preserve its stature and global appeal.
This partnership contributes to:
- Sustaining the event’s international competitiveness
- Enhancing its cultural and social impact
- Strengthening its community engagement dimension
- Ensuring the continuation of a historic European tradition
White Turf is not simply a sporting event—it is a platform.
And the Foundation’s involvement ensures that this platform remains vibrant, relevant, and impactful.
Beyond the Racecourse: A Social and Cultural Catalyst
While the races are the focal point, White Turf’s influence extends far beyond the track.
It is a social ecosystem, where:
- Business leaders, cultural figures, and international guests converge
- Local communities engage with global audiences
- Traditions are preserved while new connections are forged
The Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation plays an active role in this dimension.
During the 2025 edition, for example, the Foundation hosted a high-profile reception bringing together the Board of Directors of White Turf, partners, and distinguished guests—an initiative that fostered dialogue, collaboration, and community cohesion.
Such initiatives reinforce a key idea:
White Turf is not only about competition—it is about connection.
The Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation: Vision and Mission
At the heart of this partnership lies a broader vision.
The Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation, established in Switzerland in 2022, operates as a philanthropic organization dedicated to social impact, cultural advancement, and scientific support.
Its core pillars include:
1. Social Support
The Foundation actively contributes to improving the lives of underserved communities through targeted initiatives and donations.
2. Cultural and Historical Preservation
It supports research and cultural programs, including collaborations with institutions such as the Swiss School of Archaeology in Greece.
3. Education and Youth Development
Through scholarships and sponsorships, the Foundation invests in emerging talent—across sports, academia, and beyond.
4. International Cultural Diplomacy
By supporting cross-border initiatives, the Foundation fosters dialogue between nations, particularly between Switzerland and Greece.
A Track Record of Impact
The Foundation’s activities extend across multiple domains, reflecting a philosophy of holistic impact:
- Support for young athletes in motorsport and other disciplines
- Contributions to cultural exhibitions and research initiatives
- Donations to national institutions and public infrastructure
- Engagement in international cultural diplomacy projects
Its involvement in White Turf is therefore consistent with its broader mission:
to support excellence, tradition, and community—wherever they intersect.
Evangelos Pistiolis: The Driving Force
Behind the Foundation stands Evangelos Pistiolis, a figure whose career in international business has been accompanied by a growing commitment to philanthropy.
His approach is defined by:
- Long-term strategic thinking
- A focus on meaningful, measurable impact
- A commitment to bridging business success with social responsibility
White Turf represents a natural extension of this philosophy.
By supporting an event that combines heritage, global visibility, and community engagement, Pistiolis reinforces a model of philanthropy that is both prestigious and purposeful.
Why White Turf Matters Today
In an era where many traditional events struggle to maintain relevance, White Turf continues to thrive.
Its success lies in its ability to balance:
- Exclusivity and accessibility
- Tradition and modernity
- Sport and lifestyle
It offers:
- A world-class sporting spectacle
- A cultural and social gathering point
- A unique Alpine experience
And crucially, it remains open to a broad audience—with family-friendly programming and accessible ticket options alongside premium experiences.
The Strategic Importance of Sponsorship
High-caliber events like White Turf depend on partnerships that go beyond financial support.
They require aligned values.
The Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation brings:
- Credibility
- Stability
- Long-term vision
Its sponsorship of the Grand Prix is not merely branding—it is institutional support.
It ensures that:
- The event maintains its international prestige
- The competition remains at the highest level
- The broader ecosystem continues to grow
A Shared Philosophy: Excellence Without Compromise
At their core, both White Turf and the Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation share a common ethos:
Excellence without compromise.
- White Turf embodies excellence in sport, organization, and experience
- The Foundation embodies excellence in purpose, impact, and responsibility
Their partnership is therefore not coincidental—it is philosophically aligned.
Looking Ahead: The Future of White Turf
As White Turf moves into its next chapter, its future appears stronger than ever.
Key trends shaping its evolution include:
- Increased international visibility
- Expanded cultural programming
- Greater integration of sustainability and innovation
- Continued emphasis on community engagement
With the ongoing support of partners such as the Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation, the event is well-positioned to:
- Preserve its legacy
- Expand its reach
- Reinforce its relevance in a changing world
More Than an Event
White Turf is not simply a race.
It is:
- A heritage institution
- A global meeting point
- A symbol of Alpine culture
- A platform for connection and collaboration
Through its continued sponsorship of the Grand Prix, the Evangelos Pistiolis Foundation contributes to something enduring.
Not just an event.
But a legacy.
A legacy built on:
- Tradition
- Excellence
- Community
- Purpose
And as the snow settles each February on the frozen lake of St. Moritz, one thing becomes clear:
White Turf is not only about the thrill of the race.
It is about the enduring power of shared experience—and the responsibility to sustain it for generations to come
